Sensory Circuits
Sensory Circuits take place daily at 8:45 in the hall. Children who are completing a circuit go straight to the hall once they arrive at school and tell their teacher that they have arrived.
What is a Sensory Circuit?
A sensory circuit is a series of planned physical activities designed to help children regulate their sensory input and achieve a state of optimal alertness for learning. It’s particularly helpful for children who struggle with sensory processing or who need to regulate before the start of the day.
Structure
A circuit typically involves 15 minutes of activities divided into three sections: alerting, organising, and calming. The order of the activities is important. Starting with alerting activities helps prepare the body and mind for learning while calming activities help children wind down and refocus. The specific activities chosen should be tailored to each child’s needs and preferences. Some children may require more or less stimulation in each stage. The goal is to integrate information from different senses to create a well-rounded sensory experience. Activities can combine visual, auditory, and tactile elements.
Activities
Each section focuses on specific sensory needs. Alerting activities might involve jumping jacks or jumping on a trampoline. Organising activities could include balancing on a beam or climbing. Calming activities might involve swinging or squeezing a therapy ball. Alerting Activities aim to increase a child’s alertness and get their body moving. Activities focus on stimulating the vestibular system (balance and movement) and the proprioceptive system (body awareness). Once the child’s alertness is up, the organising stage helps them focus and organise their sensory input. Activities challenge the child’s balance, coordination, and planning skills. The final stage, Calming, aims to bring the child’s alertness level down to a calm and focused state. Activities here provide deep pressure input and promote relaxation.
Benefits
By participating in these activities in a structured way, children can better regulate their sensory systems and become more focused and ready to learn. Children who struggle with sensory processing can become easily distracted or disruptive in class. Sensory circuits can help them regulate their sensory systems, reducing outbursts and creating a calmer learning environment for everyone. Once children achieve a state of optimal alertness, which means they’re better focused and ready to learn, they can better engage leading to improved attainment and better retention of information
What if I think my child would benefit?
If you feel that your child may benefit from a sensory circuit, please speak with your child’s class teacher/